Meaning of the Quartey family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Quartey coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Quartey name meaning and origin
Quartey is a surname of Ghanaian origin, primarily associated with the Ewe and Akan ethnic groups. It signifies lineage and heritage, often linked to the Akans' rich cultural traditions. Individuals bearing the name may have ancestral ties to specific clans or regions within Ghana.
History of family crests like the Quartey coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Quartey name variations and their meaning
The family name Quartey has inspired intriguing variations across different regions and languages. In the 16th century, as the African diaspora spread, one of the notable adaptations emerged as Quartey was sometimes rendered as Quarte, particularly in France, influenced by the French penchant for trimming syllables. By the 18th century, in English-speaking countries, it morphed into variants like Quarter and Quartee, reflecting phonetic shifts common in English pronunciation and spelling trends of that era. Moving into the 19th century, migration to the Americas gave rise to alternative spellings such as Quartes and Quartez, driven by the need for phonetic clarity in new linguistic environments. Additionally, in contemporary times, names like Qarte and Kwarte have surfaced in digital communities, showcasing the evolving nature of personal identifiers in a globalized world. Each of these variations underscores the rich tapestry of cultural and linguistic interactions shaping family names through the centuries.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
